George Kelley

George Kelley, 85, of North Syracuse, passed away Saturday at home, after a long illness, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Bedford, MA, George grew up on his father’s farm. His four grandparents immigrated from Ireland. With his quick Irish wit and hearty laugh, he was very proud of his Irish heritage. By the age of 12, George could drive the family farm tractor, care for the crops and animals, and ride a Clydesdale horse with ease. A United States Air Force veteran, he enjoyed a long career in the electronics industry, as both an engineer and sales representative. In retirement, George enjoyed traveling to exotic places with his wife and spending time with his dogs and family. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

George was predeceased by his parents, John and Anna; and brothers, Jack and Frank.

Surviving are his wife of 42 years, the former Helen Masztaler; daughter, Patty Kelley of Mt. Desert Island, ME; sons, Jim (Leesa) Kelley of Liverpool and Sean (Laura) Kelley of Syracuse; grandchildren, Oriahnna Kelley-Taylor, Jeremy and Kyle NunnoNorod, and one to be born in March; sister, Ruth Gossen of Florida; sister-in-laws, Oksana Masztaler Dudiak of Syracuse and Gerry Kelley of Massachusetts; and brother-in-law, Jerry (Mary) Masztaler.

Relatives and friends may call Tuesday, December 20, from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Buranich Funeral Home, 5431 W. Genesee St., Camillus. A Panakhyda service will take place at 6 p.m.

A Divine Liturgy for the Deceased will be held Wednesday, December 21, at 10 a.m. in St. John the Baptist Ukrainian Catholic Church, 207 Tompkins St, Syracuse.

George will be laid to rest in St. John the Baptist Ukrainian Catholic Cemetery, Syracuse.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to George’s favorite animal rescue charity, “Duffy’s Friends” at duffysfriends.org, or to St. John the Baptist Ukrainian Catholic Church.